Cricket victory also a big win for Wellington

23 Feb 2015

The BLACKCAPS’ record-breaking defeat of England in Friday’s ICC Cricket World Cup match was also a major win for Wellington, with the city’s accommodation and hospitality providers scoring big over the weekend.

“With a higher proportion of overseas fans and a substantial international media contingent, we’d estimate Friday’s incredible match brought between $8–10 million into the city.”

Positively Wellington Tourism Chief Executive David Perks says the majority of the city’s hotels were at capacity over the weekend.

“Demand was also high throughout the week, suggesting visitors were arriving early to spend time exploring Wellington before the big match.”

The weather result couldn’t have been better for Wellington, Mr Perks says.

“The city was showcased at its very best in front of one of the world’s largest television audiences, which is particularly well timed given the profile Wellington has received in global ‘hot cities’ lists of late.”

Jeremy Smith, Wellington Branch President of the Hospitality Association, says the city was buzzing on Friday night.

“While English fans were no doubt disappointed to be leaving the game so early on Friday night, they were in good spirits and really enjoying the Wellington nightlife. This was particularly great for our restaurants, who received a surge in dinner business.”

Mr Perks says it appears as though most of the English fans will be back for their team’s match against Sri Lanka this Sunday.